Langham Hospitality Group sees Michelin success in Shanghai

Source: Langham Hospitality Group. Steamed grouper
dumpling in matsutake mushroom soup from
T’ang Court at The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi.

The Langham Hospitality Group (LHG) has achieved significant recognition in the MICHELIN Guide Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang 2026. 

T’ang Court at The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi, has been awarded two MICHELIN stars. This marks a new pinnacle for the fine-dining Cantonese restaurant, which first received a star in 2016.

In parallel, Ming Court at Cordis, Shanghai, Hongqiao, has retained its MICHELIN star for the 7th consecutive year.

“T’ang Court’s elevation to two MICHELIN stars is driven by the shared commitment to excellence from both our culinary and service teams. We are equally proud of Ming Court’s consistent performance in retaining its star for seven years. These achievements have cemented the restaurants’ reputations as leading fine-dining destinations in Shanghai,” LHG CEO Bob van den Oord said.

“Our group now proudly holds a total of seven MICHELIN stars across our portfolio, reinforcing our position as a global leader in Cantonese fine dining.” 

Under the leadership of Executive Chinese Chef Tony Su, T’ang Court at The Langham, Shanghai, Xintiandi honours tradition while embracing modern touches. The restaurant’s serene ambiance, inspired by the Tang dynasty and accented by contemporary art, offers panoramic views of the Xintiandi district.

Chef Su’s craftsmanship is evident in signature seafood, barbecued specialties, and refined dim sum, creating memorable dishes that are rich in both flavour and history. 

At Cordis, Shanghai, Hongqiao, Ming Court continues to be celebrated for its quality and consistency. Led by Executive Chef Paul Qian, the restaurant blends exquisite Cantonese cuisine with a touch of local Shanghainese fare in a refined setting inspired by the glamour of 1920s Shanghai. The restaurant is equally renowned for its exceptional pairings, with an extensive list of wines, sake, rare spirits, single malt whiskies, and Chinese teas.

Shanghai's Middle House launches Penthouse

Source: The Middle House. Banquet setup in the Penthouse.

The Middle House in Shanghai – Swire Hotels’ latest addition to The House Collective group of hotels – continues the same story of intimate, personal luxury with the newly-inveiled Penthouse.

Piero Lissoni, Architect and founder of Lissoni Architettura in Milan, Italy who also designed The Middle House, continues with the same modernist aesthetic in the Penthouse with touches of both Italian and Chinese culture in its design and furnishings.

The traditional Venetian terrazzo flooring in particular, was specially chosen to help amplify the spacious, classic elegance of the area, while a handpainted dragon mural in natural tones pays homage local culture.

Occupying 660 sq m on the 14th floor, the Penthouse features a living area perfect for entertaining, a master bedroom set away from a second smaller bedroom for added privacy, outdoor terraces overlooking the city, and an event space with an outdoor area and a 208 sq m indoor room that can be divided into two smaller spaces for more intimate events.

Source: The Middle House. Terrace at the Penthouse.

The attached private function area an host up to 200 people while the smaller event spaces are ideal six to 20 guests such as the Gray room, and the Wine room at Café Gray Deluxe.

The Italian restaurant, Frasca, can host 70 guests for a dinner on the outside terrace, and Sui Tang Shang, above the Chinese Restaurant, comfortably accommodates 80 guests for cocktail-style events.

Details:

The Penthouse is available from US$17,314+ per night. The price is subject to a 16.6% service charge and tax.

Amara Signature Shanghai is soft-launched

Source: Amara Hotels & Resorts. The Amara Signature Shanghai.

Amara Signature Shanghai, a new luxury brand under Singapore’s Amara Hotels & Resorts, has celebrated its soft opening.

Featuring a stylish all-glass façade, the 30-storey international five-star hotel is located at the intersection of Changshou Road and Jiaozhou Road, in Shanghai, China.

Amara Signature Shanghai aims to attract a new generation of influencers, business professionals, innovators and creative executives. The hotel offers premium accommodation, authentic cuisines and dining experiences, advanced technology and business convenience, as well as expansive meeting and event spaces. Amara Signature plans to host a series of dynamic events to facilitate interaction and collaboration among the city’s business and local communities.

“Amara Hotels & Resorts has been embracing a genuine approach to Asian hospitality and service excellence since our inception in 1986, represented by our contemporary business hotel brand Amara Hotels and luxury resort brand Amara Sanctuary that are favoured by both business and leisure travellers alike,” says Albert Teo, CEO, Amara Holdings.

“The launch of Amara Signature marks a significant milestone for our company. The brand caters to a new generation of travellers and city explorers, offering an inclusive, refreshing experience reflected in stylish design, world-class service, state-of-the-art facilities and lifestyle amenities.

"Shanghai is an exciting city full of opportunities that draws talents and entrepreneurs together; it makes an ideal location for our very first Amara Signature hotel.”

Amara Signature Shanghai comprises 343 rooms and suites between the 7th and 30th floors, with each room featuring floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city. Ranging from 32 to 149 sq m, all rooms offer modern classic interiors, plush beddings, a spacious bathroom, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and a 43”-55” flat-screen TV with satellite channels.

Food and beverage establishments include all-day dining restaurant BLU, offering ala carte and buffet selections featuring Singaporean, Japanese, Western and local Chinese cuisines. Lobby bar FLO is ideal location for socialising. The Grab n Go boutique at the lobby serves beverages, light snacks and offers a selection of souvenirs.

The 1,100 s m Grand Ballroom and 10 multipurpose function rooms provide flexible configurations for meetings, along with 191 parking spaces in the basement. Free Wi-Fi is included for meetings.

For fitness facilities, the hotel boasts an outdoor pool, plus a round-the-clock fitness centre with the latest Life Fitness equipment and customised workout programmes led by expert trainers.

Scheduled to open in Q218, the Amara Club Floors with 110 rooms and suites grant guests exclusive services including:

·         Access to the Amara Club Lounge with panoramic views of the city, serving daily breakfast, afternoon tea and evening cocktails

·         Personalised butler service

·         Complimentary pressing of two items per stay

·         Complimentary two-hour use of the Amara Club meeting room per stay

·         Express check-in and checkout

·         Free local calls

·         Packing and unpacking service

·         Pillow menu

·         PressReader access

·         Shoe shine service

The Amara Signature Shanghai is adjacent to the 100 AM Shanghai, a 10,500 sq m complex comprising a office tower and a retail mall that offers  dining outlets and a cinema. Located on Changshou Road, one of the arteries in the west downtown area dotted with under-the-radar boutiques and eateries, the hotel is a few minutes’ walk from metro lines 13 and 7, a 10-minute drive away from the business and shopping district of Jing’an, 30 minutes by car from Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport and 50 minutes' driving from Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

“Changshou Road captures a unique and strong sense of place with the historical buildings, storied past, colourful culture and city vibe”, says Henry Lee, GM, Amara Signature Shanghai.

“We envision Amara Signature Shanghai as a new landmark of the city, upgrading the business district in the neighbourhood, meeting the needs of local customers for exquisite lifestyle and social venues, and offering a perfect stay for domestic and international travellers who want to explore a different side of Shanghai.”

Details:

Call +86 21 6288 9888 about meeting needs.

Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li combines shikumen heritage with French chic

Source: Capella Shanghai website. Villa entrance.

The Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li, in Shanghai's French Concession district, transports guests back to early 20th-century Shanghai, China. One of the original “shikumen (石庫門)” that used to be common in Shanghai, the Jian Ye Li estate was the last cluster of its kind and comprises three-storey brick and stone-accented townhouses.

The directive was to create an ultra-luxury property while preserving the architectural heritage and character of the historic site. Inspired by Shanghai’s history, Jaya Interior Design and parent company BLINK Design Group blended traditional Chinese elements with French flair. Chic paneled walls and luxurious silk wallpaper are balanced against Impressionist artwork and French-style furniture, including wrought iron and metal-legged tables and button-upholstered headboards.

The urban resort now comprises 55 individual villas. Offering one to three bedrooms, each room is connected to an ensuite marble-based bathroom with separate bathtub and rain shower facilities.

Each villa provides:

• BOSE audio Bluetooth audio system
• High speed wireless Internet
• Safe
• LCD television
• Minibar with complimentary soft drinks and snacks
• Premium Acqua di Parma bath amenities

A row of houses in the front of the complex accommodate the public spaces, including a lobby with reception, a library, tea room and executive meeting area. Designed as a living room, the salon-style lobby features high ceilings tempered by a locally-sourced, wood-carved screen, which scales the room to a more personal level. Metal-framed, art-deco style mirrors complete the look. 

Source: Capella Shanghai website. The main dining area of the le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire.

Across the courtyard from the reception is le Comptoir de Pierre Gagnaire, the triple Michelin-starred French chef Pierre Gagnaire’s first restaurant in mainland China. Helmed by Gagnaire’s protégé, Romain Chapel, le Comptoir serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. The restaurant features high wooden ceilings with exposed beams and large windows that open onto the courtyard, and consists of a 60-seat dining room, a 40-seat bar, another semi-private seating area, and an eight-seat Chef’s Table. 

The blend of Chinese and French styles continues with screens dividing the various lounge spaces. In the main room, banquettes line the interior wall, while solid rosewood tables and chairs upholstered in ivory leather and linen are arranged along the exterior wall. The oval-shaped onyx bar is mirrored above with a large custom chandelier.

Details:

Capella Shanghai, Jian Ye Li is at 480 West Jianguo Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200031, China. Browse promotions

Sukhothai Shanghai to debut in late 2017

Source: HKRI. The Sukhothai Shanghai.

HKR International will soon add a second hotel to the Sukhothai Hotels & Resorts portfolio – The Sukhothai Shanghai. The urban oasis debuts in Nanjing Road West central business district in late 2017.

The Sukhothai Shanghai, a contemporary luxury boutique hotel, is a new masterpiece by the design practice, Neri & Hu. Its 168 guest rooms and 33 suites range in size from 44 to 172 sq m.

The new hotel will adhere to the hallmark Sukhothai service culture and philosophy, with an eye for details and unique facilities aimed at business and leisure travellers to Shanghai.

The Sukhothai Shanghai is an integral part of the HKRI Taikoo Hui mixed-use complex which is jointly developed by HKR International (HKRI) and Swire Properties. It is bounded on the north by Nanjing Road West and on the west by Shimen Yi Road. The new hotel is annexed with a restored heritage building named Cha House, and is connected to shops and two Grade A office towers in HKRI Taikoo Hui as well as with Shanghai’s metro network.

The Sukhothai Shanghai offers five dining and bar venues. La Scala, one of the best known Italian restaurants in Bangkok, will feature an open theatre kitchen, serving urban Italian cuisine a la minute using the freshest ingredients.

Dominating the second floor of The Sukhothai Shanghai are the meeting and banquet facilities. A ballroom and six multipurpose rooms offer a combined function space of 650 sq m.

posted from Bloggeroid

Pullman Shanghai Jing An unveiled

Source: Pullman Pullman Hotels & Resorts. The entrance of the Pullman Shanghai Jing An.

The Pullman Shanghai Jing An has opened its doors following a year-long refurbishment of the former Grand Mercure Shanghai Central. Located in the central business district, the hotel is three minutes from the railway station and main metro lines with easy access to the commercial hub, shopping and entertainment district.

Featuring 288 guestrooms and suites with floor to ceiling windows, the rooms are furnished with a flat screen TV, modern bathroom amenities and luxury bedding. Dining options include Venu, an all-day dining restaurant with an open kitchen concept serving international buffet and a-la-carte menu selection; and a Chinese restaurant featuring 19 stylish private rooms that offers authentic Shanghainese cuisine.

For meetings, private events and team building activities, the hotel has two ballrooms and five meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 350 guests. Corporate travellers can choose to hold their private meetings at the executive club lounge located on the 27th floor. Leisure facilities include a Fit Lounge which features a fully equipped gym, a 20 m lap pool, yoga studio and a spa which will be opening in 2017.

“Pullman Hotels & Resorts is a cosmopolitan brand that offers hyper-connected travellers an experience that combines both efficiency and wellness. The newly refubished and rebranded Pullman Shanghai Jing An offers discerning travellers a warm sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of metropolitan Shanghai with its innovative design, business, fitness and restaurant facilities,” said Michel Molliet, COO, AccorHotels Greater China.

In line with the launch of the Pullman Artist Playground programme, which reflects Pullman Hotels and Resorts' commitment to design, art, photography and local culture and collaborates with artists and designers around the world to help bring its design vision to life, Chinese painter Qin Ming has created The Great Spiritual Pullman series for Pullman Shanghai Jing An. 

It is the first time that Qin Ming, known for his unique use of gongbi (工笔; Editor's note: a realist Chinese painting style) painting techniques, has used gongbi to merge traditional art expression together to create live vivid images for this theme. The inspiration for the series came from a collection of Chinese style flower pots and vases. The exhibition will displayed at the hotel lobby from now until February next year.

Interested?

The Pullman Shanghai Jing An is at 330 Meiyuan Road, Zhabei District, 200070 Shanghai, China

View special offers

Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry opens office in Shanghai

As part of its strategy to reach out to promising markets and promote Dubai as a global business and trade hub, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry has opened its seventh international office in Shanghai, China.

HE Hisham Al Shirawi, 2nd Vice- Chairman, Dubai Chamber, said: “China is our top trading partner and we have worked hard to strengthen trade relations with the country over the last decade. The opening of the Chamber’s Shanghai office, our first in China, a testament of our efforts to improve trade relations with the country and Southeast Asia. The move also falls in line with objectives outlined under the Dubai Plan 2021 to strengthen the emirate’s status as a leading business hub and an attractive investment destination.
“We are confident that establishing a presence in this market will lead to new relationships and partnerships with Chinese businesses and bring about mutual benefits and economic growth. It will also help Chinese companies to expand their reach to markets in Africa, using Dubai as an access point,” he said.

HE Al Shirawi also noted that Dubai and China both enjoy a strategic geographic location and easy access to surrounding markets in the GCC and East Asia. The UAE is located along the ‘China – Central Asia – West Asia economic Corridor’ that passes through the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) region, a priority investment and trade region for Dubai.

“China’s plans to recreate the Silk Road through the One Belt One Road (一带一路) initiative have boosted its trade flows with Central Asian countries and beyond. Therefore, the UAE and Dubai play a critical role as an investment and trade hub along the New Silk Road with strategic access to the Middle East, Africa and South Asian (MEASA) markets,” said HE Al Shirawi.

“Due recent economic trends, Chinese companies are now looking abroad for new trade opportunities. We are seeing a growing number of Chinese businesses investing in Dubai’s real estate and manufacturing sectors, which is supporting the growth of the private sector,” he added.

Dubai’s non-oil trade with China has grown steadily in recent years and was worth AED176 billion in 2015. There are currently 2,829 Chinese companies registered with Dubai Chamber.

Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao Airport opens

Source: Yagao Meihua Hotel Management Company. A new landmark at Hongqiao International Airport.

Yagao Meihua Hotel Management Company, a Huazhu affiliate, opened the Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao Airport on August 28. The building used to be known Junrui Hotel Shanghai before it was closed several years ago, and has since been completely renovation by Mercure.

The other Mercure in Shanghai, the Mercure Shanghai Royalton, was the first hotel to be directly managed by Yagao Meihua Hotel Management Company in Shanghai and has already demonstrated excellent results in terms of performance, thanks to Huazhu's strong membership system and abilities in customer acquisition combined with Accor's international management and distribution platforms. These positive results have served as a strong encouragement for Mercure to further expand its presence in China and laid a foundation for the successful opening of the new hotel.

Huazhu's and Accor's booking systems have been fully integrated, allowing their members to enjoy benefits and to be able to make reservations on either platform. By connecting their loyalty programmes, Huazhu and Accor together serve 75 million members, expanding the scope of rights and benefits for existing members and allow points to be exchanged on either platform.

In Shanghai, a metropolis that is a genuine blend of history, culture, fashion and modernity, Mercure is committed to creating an ambience and decor that is a welcoming experience that blends a French essence accented by locally-inspired details. With its superior location and comprehensive suite of facilities, the Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao Airport is an ideal choice for  business travellers who want to experience the city's local characteristics amid French-style elegance.

As the hotel is adjacent to Shanghai Metro Line 10, it takes only 10 minutes to Shanghai Zoo and 17 minutes to the National Exhibition and Convention Center by subway. The superb location also provides easy access to many scenic spots.

The Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao Airport has 224 rooms whose decor is inspired by old Shanghai, but with French elements. The deluxe king rooms are equipped with a set of comfortable sofas, a Philips 43" LED TV and free Internet. The privilege rooms on the higher floors expand on the theme, adding a desk, a coffee maker, an oversized bathroom and shower facilities.

The restaurant on the first floor features a buffet breakfast. Meals for busy business executives on the go assure a diverse choice of dishes. The gym on the first floor offers a full array of fitness facilities.

Mercure is Accor Hotel's midscale brand with unique style and characteristics. It owns more than 750 hotels in 51 countries.

Interested?

The Mercure Shanghai Hongqiao Airport is located at 398 Konggang 1st Road, opposite the entrance to Hongqiao International Airport T1, 7.3 km from T2 and 8.4 km from Hongqiao Railway Station. For reservations, dial +86 21 6268 2266
http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20160826/0861608724

Marriott opens Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian

Source: Marriott International. The Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian.

Marriott International has opened the Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian. The hotel, a rebranded property, is operated by the New Development Group under a long term franchise agreement.

Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian is located in the Fengxian District, southern Shanghai, a developing commercial and industrial coastal district which also hosts spots for tourism. It has 13.7 k, of river shoreline and 31.6 km of coast. Bihai Sands Waterpark is a famous tourist destination in Fengxian and a popular summer resort.

The hotel is 42 km away from the downtown, a 45-minute drive from the Shanghai Hongqiao Airport, Hongqiao Transportation Hub and Shanghai Pudong International Airport.

“Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian is the first franchised hotel for the brand of Marriott International in China. It surely will deliver Courtyard by Marriott’s brand promise for offering business and leisure travelers a refreshing stay with friendly and attentive service,” said Henry Lee, Chief Operations Officer – Greater China of Marriott International.

“We are an established hotel in the local market. As a result of the highly acclaimed Courtyard by Marriott brand and the rapid development of Fengxian district, our hotel will welcome a broader audience of local, regional and international travellers,” said Yu Xiangzheng, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian.

The 259 guest rooms of the hotel range from 36 to 150 sq m and feature a work area and high-speed Internet access. Other amenities include HD TV with satellite TV channels, a safe deposit box, minibar and the hotel’s bespoke Golden Pillow Service, offering guests the choice of seven types of pillow.

Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian offers both Chinese and international cuisine. The Pavilion all-day dining restaurant features an international buffet, while The Lounge at the hotel’s lobby is an ideal place for unwinding.

The hotel offers more than 824 sq m of meeting space. This includes 11 meeting rooms which can accommodate up to 180 people. All are equipped with advanced lighting, audiovisual equipment support and enjoy Wi-Fi coverage.

Interested?

The Last-Minute Weekends promotion offers rooms for two nights at RMB580 and up per night. Contact Courtyard by Marriott Shanghai Fengxian at +86 021 5742 9999

Mercure Shanghai Royalton is 8th Mercure property in Greater China

Source: Mercure website.

AccorHotels, a major international hotelier, has opened the Mercure Shanghai Royalton, the 8th property in the group’s midscale Mercure brand in Greater China. Situated in downtown Shanghai in Hongqiao business and shopping district, the hotel is a 20-minute drive from Hongqiao Airport and Hongqiao Railway Station. The Cloud Nine Shopping Mall is within walking distance, and Zhongshan Park is nearby.

“Mercure Shanghai Royalton is a fantastic addition to the Mercure brand, a global network of hotels that fuses international hotel standards with authentic local culture to provide an unparalleled hotel experience,” said Paul Richardson, Chief Operating Officer, AccorHotels Greater China. “Shanghai is one of the world’s most exciting destinations."

Mercure Shanghai Royalton features 239 guestrooms and suites, all equipped with free high-speed WiFi and LCD TVs. The hotel also features six meeting rooms accommodating up to 200 people, with conferencing technology and a dedicated professional support team.

Fuji Restaurant offers an authentic Japanese dining experience, while the Grand Bodega Spanish Restaurant offers traditional Spanish dishes. R Kitchen, the hotel’s Chinese restaurant, employs some of the best chefs locally to prepare Cantonese and Shanghainese dishes.

Experience Glam at the Bund

‘M’ Restaurant Group has launched Glam, a sophisticated new Shanghai dining lounge & bar at 5 on the Bund - the same address that has been home to Shanghai institution and Bund pioneer, M on the Bund restaurant.

‘M’, spearheaded by Shanghai’s legendary entrepreneur Michelle Garnaut, is famed for setting new standards of dining in Asia. Her restaurant collection began with the opening of M at the Fringe in Hong Kong (1989), from which she went on to pioneer the revival of sophistication in Shanghai with M on the Bund (1999), and then further enhanced Shanghai’s nightlife with The Glamour Bar (2006). From here, she brought fine dining to the heart of Beijing’s Tiananmen Square with Capital M in 2009.

“There’s something for everyone…over 18 years of age. It’s a fun place for grownups!” says Michelle Garnaut.

The menu, created under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Hamish Pollitt offers a delicious array of modern food designed for sharing, at prices that will have guests coming back often. With each menu, he respects the seasons, highlights local ingredients and introduces something new every month.

Depending on the size of their appetites, guests are advised to choose one or two items from each of the sections, where favourites include the Veggie Pakoras and Sweet Eggplant Pickle (RMB36), Smoking Salmon and Salmon Caviar (RMB48), Chili Salt-Crusted Bean Curd & Black Beans (RMB38), Thai Tah Tah (RMB68), 18-hour Lamb Shoulder Rogan Josh (RMB128), and Ginger-Glazed Duck Dome Pie (RMB108).

The playful ‘Folly Trolley’ is stacked with a revolving selection of desserts including sweet Verrines (RMB42) served in M’s beautiful colourful cut glasses, Alfonso’s Exploding Mango Pannacotta, Carmen Miranda’s tres fash Iles Flotante, Josephine Baker’s Chocolat Mousse, and Pavlov’s Dog … in a glass.

Source: Glam. Interiors inspired by peacocks.

Guests enter the sensuous space through a glittering crystal waterfall, revealing low tables and dark jewel tone interiors inspired by the feathery tail of a peacock. Designers Duncan Miller Ullmann (DMU) have created a warm and alluring interior. A comfortable mix of bespoke furniture and dark mirrored ceilings emphasise a series of works exclusively designed for Glam by famed cinematographer / artist / writer Christopher Doyle.

Interested?

Glam is open every day from 5pm till late, at West 7F, No 5 The Bund, Shanghai. Call +86 21 6329 3751 with questions.

www.m-restaurantgroup.com

Make marketing more effective with a focus on mobile

The Mobile Marketing Association (MMA) has announced the results of the latest Smart Mobile Cross Marketing Effectiveness (SMoX) study*, which was conducted for The Coca-Cola Company in China earlier this year. Results released at the MMA Shanghai Forum confirm that marketers would significantly improve their overall campaign performance, without increasing budget, by simply raising mobile spend.

According to the study, the optimal spend for mobile is between 8 and 15% of total campaign spend. Conducted in combination with Marketing Evolution and InsightExpress, SMoX assesses the economic value of mobile compared to traditional marketing channels and provides brand marketers with the first empirical evidence on the impact of mobile in the marketing mix. The results from this latest study are consistent with results from other recently released studies in the US with AT&T, Coca-Cola, MasterCard and Walmart.

“Because we strive to develop the world’s most innovative and effective marketing, we knew we had to fully understand and leverage mobile’s ability to drive the future growth of our business,” said Tom Daly, Group Director, Global Connections, at The Coca-Cola Company. “Based on the results for China, as well as the study we conducted in the US, we have begun to see a number of truths about mobile that provide a clear path forward, especially around marketing effectiveness. We now have the facts we needed.”

 Key results include:

 Mobile offered nearly double the ROI over TV and was twice as efficient in driving sales compared to the campaign on average
 Mobile at 8% of total budget drives 7% of the profit and mobile at 15% drives 16%
 Mobile video emerged as significantly more effective compared to both TV and digital video (around 3X).
 Mobile display ads drove purchase intent, while mobile social ads drove both purchase intent and engagement In conclusion, SMoX showed that the optimised mobile spend level is 15%, impacting sales even further and producing a double-digit profit increase.

"The market has acknowledged that there is a deep chasm between consumer behaviour and what brands are currently spending on mobile, but now there is real, indisputable proof on the value of mobile to a brand's business goals," said Greg Stuart, CEO of the MMA. “We applaud Coke for their leadership and commitment to figuring out the true ROI of their marketing spend and aligning to consumers’ dramatic move to mobile for content, community and commerce.” 

Source: MMA. Rohit Dadwal.

The results from China reinforce the findings of the other US SMoX studies—that mobile is a key driver of business results across the entire purchasing funnel. Additionally the SMoX study highlights that mobile when executed with best practices impacts performance even further.

“With empirical data, the SMoX study with Coca-Cola in China demonstrates the impact of mobile on a business and its competitive opportunity in this region, similar to what we have observed in the US—but with even better results,” said Rohit Dadwal, Managing Director of the MMA in Asia Pacific.

“It is a great data set for marketers to reassess and optimise their spending with the most impactful allocations in their marketing mix, while leveraging mobile with double digit spend. As an industry, it is time we learned the effectiveness of the channel to aid marketers with their ambitions, and kept pace with consumers to understand the power of mobile.” 

*SMoX applies Marketing Evolution's cross-media attribution modelling approach, leveraging new techniques to provide a granular read on mobile and other media. Marketing Evolution’s methodology has been independently reviewed by the Advertising Research Foundation (ARF). 

Waste cooking oil helps power 1,000 km flight in China

Waste cooking oil may soon become part of travel plans. A regularly scheduled Hainan Airlines flight has carried more than 100 passengers from Shanghai to Beijing in a Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft, a distance of over 1,000 km using a fuel blend that includes biofuel made by Sinopec from waste cooking oil collected from restaurants in China. Both of the airplane's CFM International CFM56-7B engines were powered by a fuel blend of approximately 50% aviation biofuel mixed with conventional petroleum jet fuel.

Sustainably produced biofuel, which reduces carbon emissions by 50 to 80% compared to petroleum through its lifecycle, is expected to play a key role in supporting aviation's growth while meeting environmental goals. 

Said Pu Ming, VP of Hainan Airlines, who piloted the plane: "As a fast-growing domestic and international carrier, Hainan Airlines is demonstrating our environmental commitment by showing that aviation biofuel can play a safe and effective role in China's air transport system."

"Boeing is proud to advance its decades-long partnership with China by collaborating closely with Hainan Airlines and Sinopec to achieve this significant milestone," said Ian Thomas, President, Boeing China. "We thank and congratulate our partners, whose teamwork, vision and commitment to sustainable aviation are helping to improve our industry and our environment for the long term."

Added Sinopec spokesperson Lv Dapeng: "For many years, Sinopec has maintained a leadership role in China in terms of the development and application of biomass fuel including aviation biofuel and bio-diesel. This fully represents an earnest commitment from Sinopec to continuously advance scientific and technological innovation and promote green and low-emission development."

Cachet Hotel Group reveals URBN Shanghai's new look

The Cachet Hotel Group (CHG) has completed renovations to the edgy URBN Hotel in Shanghai, which is a converted warehouse space. Under the creative direction of CHG's celebrity fashion designer, Jay Godfrey, the new interiors provide a modernist zen experience for hotel guests. The neutral colour palette also enhances the natural beauty of the recycled and reclaimed wood materials used. 

Source: CHG. The Jay Godfrey Courtyard Suite.

Photo - http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20140911/0861406560

The URBN Shanghai hosts a signature Jay Godfrey designer suite. This 40 square meter suite features black lacquer finishes throughout, modern artwork, Tom Dixon pendant lights and an indoor-outdoor lounge 26 sq m terrace that overlooks the hotel's courtyard.

Business travellers will find URBN Hotel's new guestrooms more convenient for work, sleep and relaxation. All the guest rooms have been upgraded with new Mayair Technology air purification systems. Guests can also enjoy in-room Nespresso coffee machines, smart phone docking stations and wall-mounted 46" Samsung HD TV Performance Line televisions featuring international and local channels.

Each redesigned guest room features light fixtures with eco-friendly origins. A customisable lighting installation allows guests to create their own mood setting via remote control. URBN's signature Renewal Bed is also eco-friendly, being made from 100% natural materials, including cactus fibre, seaweed and coconut fibre. The Renewal Bed features a four-layer bed system and 600-thread count Egyptian cotton sheet for a better sleep experience. 

The eco-boutique hotel also features a brand new fitness center called URBNfit. URBN has also partnered with Shanghai art gallery Art+ to display their contemporary artworks throughout the hotel and penthouses. 

"The redesigned and renovated URBN hotel reflects our passion in providing enriching and healthy experiences for today's discerning travellers pivoted by design, sustainability and comfort," said Aaron Griffiths, President of Hospitality Development. "Our guests will find not just a refreshed style but serious substance – that will make their stay at URBN hotel an even more restful and inspiring experience."

This October, URBN will introduce the BeerGRDN restaurant and bar, designed to be a casual dining and social venue, perfect for groups, sharing and celebrations. The bistro-style menu focuses on Italian and American flavours with a contemporary twist. 

Hyatt Regency Suzhou is first Hyatt hotel in Jiangsu province

Hyatt Regency Suzhou has formally opened in the city of Suzhou, known for its ancient canals, stone bridges and UNESCO-listed classic gardens. 

Source: Hyatt. The 29-floor atrium is the
highest in the city.

"The opening of Hyatt Regency Suzhou is a strategic step for Hyatt as we grow our brand presence in China," said Christopher Koehler, VP of operations - China, Hyatt. "We look forward to fostering meaningful connections among business and leisure travelers around the world."

Located in the Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP), Hyatt Regency Suzhou is part of Jinghope Plaza, a new complex project that includes a luxury shopping mall, entertainment venues and two Grade-A office buildings.

Hyatt Regency Suzhou has a subway station at its doorstep, and is expected to become a key connecting point between Suzhou and Shanghai, offering easy accessibility to visiting guests. It takes just 25 minutes by train to reach Shanghai, one hour by car to reach Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, and 10 minutes by car to reach Suzhou SIP Railway Station, the transportation hub of Yangtze River Delta region. The Suzhou International Expo Center is nearby as well.

The hotel offers 355 spacious guestrooms and suites plus a Regency Club. There are five restaurants and lounges, more than 15,000 square feet of innovative meeting and event venues, and spa and wellness facilities.

"We are delighted to introduce the Hyatt Regency brand's signature world-class dining, hospitality and amenities to one of China's most historic cities," said Gary Chan, GM of Hyatt Regency Suzhou. "With an energetic team of expert planners and passionate hoteliers, we are ready to welcome our guests from the neighbourhood and around the world."

Hyatt Regency Suzhou features both international flavors and authentic local dishes with fresh seasonal ingredients. Hua Chi 88 is a Chinese dining restaurant serving authentic Suzhou and Huaiyang cuisines, Taihu Boat cuisine from nearby Tai Lake, and Peking duck roasted over fruitwood in the traditional duck oven. Live show kitchens throughout the dining room add to the theatrical atmosphere. Six private dining rooms feature large windows and private bathrooms.

The Fireplace is an international grill restaurant with a European bistro-style ambience. The open kitchen serves up Italian pizzas and grilled specialties. The Fireplace also features a mosaic and marble bar with a Manhattan vibe.

Tea House on the ground floor serves light snacks, beverages and cocktails, and provides free Wi-Fi. 

Beneath the magnificent 29-story atrium, The Atrium is ideal for informal meetings and gatherings. Market Cafe occupies a second-floor space with double-height windows where guests can eat out of the pan, off the grill and out of the wok.

Hyatt Regency Suzhou is the place for every occasion with more than 15,000 square feet of meetings and events space. The Residence is a new-concept events venue comprised of four multifunctional rooms with large French windows, hosting up to 360 guests. The rooms feature versatile sliding screens that open onto a large foyer, and a dedicated Loft Kitchen is fully equipped for creative dining experiences. The Residence is ideal for conferences, meetings and cocktail events. 

Designed in contemporary style, the 6,240-square-foot Regency Ballroom can host up to 450 people for a cocktail event and 340 for a private dining event. The ballroom can also be divided into two rooms for smaller gatherings. A large VIP/Bridal Dressing Room and lounge are available. 

All venues are appointed with advanced technology and communications systems as well as complimentary wireless Internet connectivity. A private street-front entrance provides exclusivity.

M&M's unveils first M&M's World store in Asia

M&M's, the chocolate brand, has celebrated the grand opening of its first M&M's World store in Asia, adding another Shanghai destination to visit for souvenir shopping. M&M's World Shanghai is a 1,600 sq m (about 17,222 sq ft) 'retail-tainment' destination over two storeys of what the company calls 'colourful, chocolate fun'.

The store offers M&M's Brand Chocolate Candies in 22 colours and three varieties – milk chocolate, peanut and almond - and a wide range of M&M's merchandise, including apparel, kitchenware, plush toys and uniquely Shanghai- and China-themed M&M's branded products, such as mugs, tins and T-shirts, designed specifically for the Shanghai store. 

"Shanghai is the ideal city for the first M&M's World store in Asia due to the city's truly global feel and appeal," said Brian Schiegg, General Manager, Mars Retail Group. "The location in the Brilliance Shimao International Plaza made perfect sense for the world's largest chocolate brand, since East Nanjing Road is one of the busiest pedestrian streets in China and a highly visited tourist destination in Shanghai. 

"M&M's World Shanghai welcomes visitors to a unique retail experience that combines shopping and entertainment, with an eye-catching, iconic-looking store that engages and excites fans of the M&M's brand from all over the world."

The store combines iconic Chinese landmarks and cultural elements with M&M's characters, which are known by their colours. Blue and Green are dressed as Kung Fu Characters at the store's side entrance within the mall. Yellow is disguised as a panda among bamboo. A Lantern Garden features numerous hanging lanterns that illuminate and change colors as visitors step on the platform.

As guests walk up the stairs to the second floor, they are greeted by a large moon gate that previews the Great Wall of Chocolate. The Great Wall of Chocolate is the world's largest M&M's candy wall, with 132 individual tubes. Red and Orange stand guard here, dressed as Warriors. 

The Great Wall of Chocolate.

M&M's World Shanghai, open from 10 am to 10 pm every day is the fifth M&M's World flagship store, joining US stores in Times Square, New York; Orlando, Florida; two stores in Nevada, in Las Vegas and Henderson; and Leicester Square in London. The Shanghai store is one of the smaller M&M's World stores. The Las Vegas store is 28,000 sq ft while the London store is 35,000 sq ft. Both are four levels high.

*Images from M&M's.

Aeromexico adds one more flight between Shanghai and Mexico City

From July 1st, Aeromexico will have a third flight between Shanghai and Mexico City operated on Sundays as part of the airline's expansion plan. With three flights per week, Aeromexico will have more than 1,500 seats on its route, operated with a Boeing 777, with a capacity of 277 seats - 49 on business and 228 on coach class - per flight.

 Each flight offers personalised entertainment systems, more space, as well as flat seats on Clase Premier (Aeromexico Business Class).
 
AM099 Shanghai - Mexico City
Departs Shanghai 1045*
Arrives Mexico City 1400 
Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday

AM098 Mexico City - Shanghai
Departs Mexico City 2145
Arrives Shanghai 0600 (+2 days) 
Tuesday, Friday and Sunday

*All local times

Aeromexico is the only airline in Latin America that has connected China with the America for more than four years. The airline recently added a fourth flight between Tokyo and Mexico City as well. 

Ad:tech China announces event dates for 2014

Dmg::events APAC, the organisers of ad:tech, an Asian digital marketing, media and advertising event, have announced that the China leg of the event will be taking place from 26 to 27 June at the Kerry Hotel Pudong Shanghai. 

Said Paul Beckley, Vice President, Digital Marketing: "Ad:tech China will unite the most dynamic industry for the last decade. Ad:tech China will bring together the most elite thought leaders in the digital marketing space to share big ideas, bring practical solutions and thought leadership."
Delegates to the event will be able to view best practices, cutting-edge products and technology throughout the two-day conference as well as participate in free showfloor seminars.

Said Shaun Rein, Managing Director, China Market Research Group: "Ad:tech is far and away the best digital marketing event in Asia. It is a great place to network with industry leaders from China and abroad, learn about emerging trends and digital marketing best practices, and have fun."

Rein, who wrote "The End of Cheap China", will be talking about developing expertise on China's digital scene as a returning advisory board member at the ad:tech China 2014 summit.

The event will be in its seventh year in Singapore. Ad:tech Asean will be held in July 2014.